Helicopter Association International has released a new online report tool for rotorcraft pilots to address what the organization describes as a growing need for reporting airborne safety hazards. The reporting tool, located at rotor.org/HARP, is designed to include near misses and other in-flight safety events.

The HAI Aviation Reporting Program (HARP) was developed by the association’s Operations Department specifically for helicopter pilots, with data fields for both manned and unmanned rotary-wing operations.

HAI explains HARP grew out of a discussion among members of the HAI Air Medical Services Committee, which noted there was no effective system for prompt reporting of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS, or drone) activities that could threaten the safety of helicopter air ambulance operators.

HARP users can report events in these specific reporting categories: Drone/UAS event, accident/serious incident, near midair collision, wildlife strike/activity, laser event, and other hazards. Clicking on one of the six categories, explains HAI, directs users to the proper reporting source, while also guiding them through a menu of questions or selections related to the event, capturing date, time, location, description, and other key data.

By using HARP, pilots experience the convenience of accessing several different reporting systems within one portal. If another reporting system already exists for the event, such as the NTSB one for accidents and incidents or the FAA’s for laser events,

HARP also connects pilots to other official reporting systems. “HARP is not intended to serve as a substitute for other public reporting systems or programs,” said Chris Hill, director of safety at HAI. “We encourage pilots to continue using any effective, responsive system they prefer for reporting hazardous conditions.

“The purpose of HARP is to provide a simple reporting portal that promptly guides users through the reporting steps,” continued Hill, “and ensures that vital safety information is shared with stakeholder operators in the most expedient manner possible.”

Hill explains HAI will handle all HARP submissions with respect for individual and operator privacy. The association is also working directly with NASA to develop strict protocols for secure processing and transfer of HARP submissions into NASA’s Aviation Safety Reporting System (ASRS).

HARP submissions forwarded to the ASRS will retain 14 CFR 91.25 protections, states HAI, which prohibit the use of ASRS reports in any disciplinary action, except for information concerning accidents and criminal offenses.

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